Though almost all actors and directors must struggle to find gainful employment in their profession, this challenge continues to be an even greatest one for many African-American actors. Fortunately, some advances have been made. This film… MoreThough almost all actors and directors must struggle to find gainful employment in their profession, this challenge continues to be an even greatest one for many African-American actors. Fortunately, some advances have been made. This film seeks to document the types of discrimination and unique challenges these actors have had to overcome, as well as recent triumphs. Actor Louis Gossett, Jr., hosts this program that uses both older black-and-white film clips, along with color ones, to review the absence and presence of African-Americans in Hollywood productions over the years. As many viewers know, minority actors continue to be hired more often for lesser comedy roles than positive dramatic ones. However, the film remains upbeat as it praises the talented African-Americans who continue to be trailblazers for many others.

Like Black Hollywood, this is a documentary exploring the history and evolution of African Americans in the film industry. It covers the years 1903-1970, but… MoreLike Black Hollywood, this is a documentary exploring the history and evolution of African Americans in the film industry. It covers the years 1903-1970, but provides a brief glimpse into the impact that followed in the years after that.
This film gets some crediiblity for getting the participation of Donald Bogle- perhaps the leading scholar in the field of African American film studies. Louis Gossett, Jr. also does a nice job narrating the affair. While the film does leave some stuff out, and could have done a more thorough and deeper analysis of things (and put stuff into a better, stronger historical context), it is entertaining, informative, and makes you really appreciate the hard work and sacrifices made by men and women who really had to fight hard.
It is perhaps just a tad better than Black Hollywood, even if it isn't quite what it should be.

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